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Pre-Seminary Studies

Pre-Seminary Studies

Anderson University seeks to serve students preparing for seminary education through a range of courses considered basic to graduate theological study.

It is not possible to prescribe one pattern as normative for all pre-seminary education. Widely varying emphases and settings of ministry encourage a variety of patterns. Nonetheless, it is possible and desirable to identify categories of learning which typically are foundational for graduate theological education:

Communication skills essential for interpreting and communicating the faith of the church. The ability to read, write, and speak standard written English is vital. Students are encouraged to have a reading knowledge of at least one language other than English. It is highly desirable that a reading knowledge of Greek and Hebrew be developed as a basic tool for meaningful graduate theological education. Additional language skills might be essential, depending on vocational intent and the setting of potential ministry.

General understandings of human selfhood and existence, modern social institutions and problems, culture and religion, science and technology, and the modes of understanding. A considerable degree of competence should be developed in one or more of these categories of learning. Such competence often is represented by a major in a field such as philosophy, sociology, psychology, or history of civilization. Students are expected to have had some academic experience in these fields.

Theological understandings of major religious traditions and the contemporary questions of values and faith in the context of the above general understandings and communication skills. Of particular significance, as a foundation for graduate training for Christian ministry, is a knowledge of the nature and content of the biblical materials.

Internships, careers, and ministry opportunities

Students pursuing pre-seminary education at Anderson University may complete internships in a variety of ministry roles within congregations and para-church organizations. Those who complete seminary degrees typically go on to serve as pastors or staff members of congregations, as chaplains in medical or correctional facilities, or in other ministry capacities in a variety of organizations and communities.

Alumni experiences

Get to know these Anderson University graduates who continued their education in seminary: